[Chantel]

I am 38 and 1/2 weeks pregnant, I had a OBGYN appointment and the OB told me that my cervix is 3 and 1/2 cm long. How can I get my cervix to dailate other than just walking, are there any liquids that I can drink or insert without harming my unborn child?

[J_9]

Time. Time is the only safe way to do this without harming your baby.

Please tell me you weren't serious about inserting something. There are some gels that can be used, but they are only used in the hospital setting and only under close supervision.

If you are 3 1/2cm dilated, you should be coming on very soon. You only have about 1 1/2 weeks left. I know the last few weeks are horrendous, but you want to give your little one every chance possible to be healthy.

If s/he is born too soon then you run many risks that would be avoided if you just waited.

[buggage]

A lot of progress can be made in your remaining 1 1/2 weeks of pregnancy. Walking is a great way to help bring labor about gently. Don't over due it, though. Not only can it be harmful to you and baby, but if it did set you into labor, you would be so exhausted, you wouldn't be able to function properly. So, just take your time, relax, and let baby start labor on its own, if possible. Its much easier and safer for the both of you. Besides, even a few weeks can mean a lot as far as baby's development. You don't want baby to come before its fully prepared. I know its frustrating to have to wait, especially when you are feeling huge and awkward(my first was a week late, and they had to induce.) Just relax, get everything you want to get done, done before baby comes. Lots of alone time, and relaxation. It will be a while until you have those again once baby comes. Congrats, and good luck

[ghost56]

Baby will arrive when it is ready, if not the doctors will decide when to try to help things along. You have waited so long now, another week or so won't hurt.